For some reason, hotel toiletries just have that special allure. With their unique scents and cute packaging, those products have a certain appeal that makes them irresistible to many travelers. In fact, a staggering 73% of American travelers admit to taking hotel toiletries home with them. But where do we draw the line between acceptable souvenirs and items that should be left behind? Let’s explore the expert-advice etiquette of taking hotel souvenirs.
Acceptable Items
According to Mehmet Erdem, an associate professor of hotel operations and technology, certain items are acceptable to take. These include hotel toiletries such as bar soap, shampoo, and disposable slippers. However, it’s important to consider whether the hotel participates in charity programs that repurpose these items. If they do, it’s best to leave them for those in need. Additionally, writing stationery like pens, pencils, and note papers are typically free for guests to take.
Off-Limits Items
Erdem emphasizes that there are items that should never be taken from hotel rooms. Linens, including towels, sheets, and pillowcases are considered big no-nos. Some guests mistakenly assume that books or magazines in their rooms are available for taking, but this is generally not the case. Hairdryers and steam irons are also frequently packed by guests ‘accidentally.’
Probable Consequences
The act of stealing hotel property is considered a crime. Authorities have pursued charges against guests who have taken items like towels or other valuables. In some cases, guests even have served prison time for theft. Furthermore, a hotel can maintain “no stay” databases for individuals they no longer wish to accommodate, which may also be shared with other hotels. The costs of theft, even petty theft, can add up to an estimated $100 million annually for the hotel industry.
Seeking Guidance
If you’re uncertain about what is acceptable to take, it’s always best to ask the hotel staff at the front desk. Seeking guidance ensures that you make informed decisions without inadvertently crossing any boundaries and facing unintended consequences.
A Live Travel Trivia Game to Play Right From the Couch
Travel Trivia? That’s an adventure – for your mind. Even if you can’t live your dreams by physically traveling the world at the moment, you can still put your travel knowledge to the test in an upcoming travel trivia game.
About the Trivia Game
App in the Air is the host of this game that can be played from the comfort of your own home. Virtual meetups are usually hosted via Zoom on Tuesdays at 3 PM EST. This game is a way for App in the Air to connect travelers and travel enthusiasts and give them a chance to win prizes.
App in the Air is an app that is especially useful for those who prefer to live out of a suitcase. It can keep track of your travel itineraries, including boarding passes and frequent-flier programs.
The director of marketing for App in the Air, Anita Loomba, stated that one of the reasons people enjoy traveling is because of their ability to connect with others. Travel has declined, and they want to provide a way for travel lovers all over to connect. She also mentioned that connecting with people and experiences is vital for our survival. This was the main motivation behind the game – bringing people together without physically traveling as they normally would.
What the Game is About
The trivia game will include more than a dozen questions that range from aviation knowledge, like correctly naming the logo of an airline, to quirky facts. Participants will have the chance to win prizes that include paid airline credits worth $50, along with branded items which include mugs, t-shirts, and eye masks.
For those who travel a lot or are interested in aviation knowledge, the questions might be especially interesting.
The game is free to play and will also include a Q&A session with the founder of the app “App in the Air.”